Bondi Rescue's Bruce 'Hoppo' Hopkins Told Us His Top Five Things to Do in Bondi

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If you're going to truly get to know a suburb, ask a local. Bondi's full of proud neighbours, from top restaurateur Maurice Terzini to music duo Angus Mcdonald and Connie Mitchell of Sneaky Sound System, to life saving hero and Bondi Rescue star Bruce 'Hoppo' Hopkins.

Hoppo is a bonafide Bondi local, having spent 25 years as a lifeguard in the beachside suburb. He knows the difference between a tourist trap eatery and damn good brunch destination — so it makes sense he's been appointed as an experience curator and partner at QT Bondi (Bondi's newest local). We asked Hoppo to hand over his go-to spots in Sydney's most famous beachside suburb. Write 'em down for next time you're beachbound.

CHAPTER ONE

"I like to start the day with the Bronte to Bondi coastal walk and watch the sunrise at the beach followed by brekkie at Chapter One on Campbell Parade. It's the locals choice for coffee and I recommend the old school boiled eggs and soldiers."

ICEBERGS

"Bondi is a hub of activity in the mornings with many taking to Icebergs pool for an early morning swim, a run on the beach or hitting the ocean for a surf."

THE BUCKET LIST

"For afternoon drinks you can't go past The Bucket List, a great way to watch the sunset close to the water."

BONDI HARDWARE

"A couple of my favourite spots for dinner include Hardware which offers a relaxed environment and great for groups or the famous Bondi Hotel for a traditional Aussie beach pub experience. Bondi has a diverse and multicultural environment and has something for everyone."

Stock up on more tasty Bondi local secrets in our Bondi Neighbourhood Guide.

Top image: Ted O'Donnell.